Senior Mammals Keeper

British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA); Greater London; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Blackpool Zoo is recruiting a Senior Mammals Keeper to join our Mammal team. The role focuses on high welfare care, daily management and enrichment of a diverse mammal collection, including elephants, big cats and apes.

You will lead a team, mentor staff and work closely with veterinary colleagues. The successful candidate will have at least five years' keeping experience, a DMZAA or equivalent, and a full UK driving licence.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years' keeping experience.
• Experience with Category 1 species desirable (elephants, big cats or apes).
• Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or an equivalent qualification.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills with excellent communication.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily care, feeding, cleaning and monitoring of animal health.
• Develop and implement enrichment programmes to promote natural behaviours.
• Supervise and mentor seasonal keepers and trainees; provide training.
• Collaborate with veterinary staff to address health needs.
• Maintain accurate records of care, health and behaviour.
• Engage with the public through educational talks and demonstrations.
• Assist with departmental planning, emergency preparedness and staff development.
• Manage the section in the absence of the Department Manager.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Team management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

DMZAA or equivalent

Job description

Blackpool Zoo

North West Closing date for applications is: 4th Oct 2026

Contact: Leah Lancashire ([e-mail]) Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: £29,550

About Us

Blackpool Zoo is currently looking to recruit a Senior Mammals Keeper to join our Mammal team.

As part of the continued development of the Animal Department, we have recently reviewed this position to ensure it continues to meet the future needs of the collection and wider department. This presents an exciting opportunity for an experienced keeper to join a progressive team and contribute to the continued success of Blackpool Zoo.

The successful candidate will work alongside the existing team in the daily care and husbandry of our animal collection, whilst also providing support and guidance to other keepers within the section. The zoo houses a wide range of mammal species, from Cotton-top Tamarins to Asian Elephants, and applicants should have experience working with a wide range of mammal taxa.

The Zoo is part of Parque Reunidos, one of Europe’s leading owners and operators of leisure attractions. With over 50 years of experience, it delivers authentic, memorable experiences to millions of visitors each year.

Role Overview

As a Senior Mammals Keeper at Blackpool Zoo, you will play a key role in the care, management and enrichment of our diverse animal collection. You will support a team of keepers, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, health and husbandry are maintained at all times.

The successful applicant will be a proven team player with a good knowledge of the zoological industry and an understanding of the requirements needed to maintain and continuously improve the husbandry and welfare of the species under their care. You will be required to work safely and confidently with all species on your section and have excellent training skills using positive reinforcement methods.

As a Senior Mammals Keeper, you will be expected to oversee and supervise other staff members and, on occasion, manage the section in the absence of the Department Manager. In addition, the successful candidate will have opportunities to become involved in areas such as Category 1 species management, operational planning, emergency preparedness and staff development.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily care and management of animals within the section, including feeding, cleaning and monitoring animal health.
• Develop and implement enrichment programmes to promote natural behaviours and enhance animal wellbeing.
• Supervise and mentor seasonal keepers, trainee keepers and animal keepers, providing training and guidance to ensure best practice in animal care.
• Collaborate with veterinary staff to monitor and address the health needs of the animals.
• Maintain accurate records of animal care, health and behaviour.
• Engage with the public through educational talks, demonstrations and interactive experiences.
• Assist with departmental operational planning, emergency preparedness and project work as required.
• Support the management of Category 1 species and associated operational procedures where appropriate.
• Manage the section in the absence of the Department Manager when required.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years' keeping experience, with some Category 1 species experience desirable (Elephants, Big Cats or Apes).
• Extensive knowledge of animal husbandry, welfare and enrichment practices.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with a focus on mentoring and motivation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or an equivalent qualification.
• Full UK driving licence.